Slot could reunite with title-winning playmaker at Liverpool | OneFootball

Orkun Kokcu eager for Liverpool move as Slot eyes midfield boost

Midfield options under review

Liverpool’s title-winning 2024/25 campaign was defined by resilience and adaptability. But even the most successful sides leave room for improvement. One area that remains under scrutiny at Anfield is central midfield, with Arne Slot keen to add depth and variety to his options ahead of the new season.

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Caught Offside report that Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu, a former captain under Slot at Feyenoord, is keen on a reunion at Anfield. The Turkish international is said to favour a move to Liverpool over other suitors, which include Manchester United, Tottenham, Inter Milan, Galatasaray, Fenerbahce and Besiktas.

Slot connection driving interest

The connection between Slot and Kokcu cannot be overstated. During Feyenoord’s 2022/23 title-winning campaign, Kokcu emerged as the heartbeat of the team, often dictating tempo and demonstrating leadership beyond his years.

Now at Benfica, Kokcu has enjoyed another strong campaign, scoring seven goals and providing seven assists in the Primeira Liga. His versatility has also been a notable strength. Primarily a No8, he can also operate as a No10 or deeper in midfield, offering the sort of tactical flexibility Slot values.

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“Liverpool are that team,” the report states, referring to Kokcu’s preferred destination. The 24-year-old has previously described Slot as a “father figure,” further underlining the strength of their professional relationship.

Liverpool’s midfield strategy continues

Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has seen a combination of youth and experience arrive at the club. While Mac Allister, Gravenberch and Szoboszlai have all shown promise, the toll of a demanding season highlighted the need for one more top-tier option.

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Pursuits of players such as Martin Zubimendi, Samuel Ricci and Nico Gonzalez did not bear fruit. Ricci joined Milan, Gonzalez moved to Manchester City and Jauregizar extended his contract at Athletic Club.

Kokcu now appears to be one of the more viable targets remaining, and with Benfica reportedly open to a €40 million deal, the financial side of negotiations could prove manageable.

Agency links could ease negotiations

Kokcu is represented by LIAN Sports, the same agency behind Liverpool’s interest in Milos Kerkez and previously linked with Federico Chiesa. That relationship may aid negotiations if Liverpool choose to act swiftly in the market.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The potential return of a Slot-Kokcu partnership is both strategic and sentimental. This is not a typical scouting link based on raw data or brief flashes of brilliance. This is a connection rooted in trust, understanding and proven impact on the pitch.

Liverpool fans will remember how integral Kokcu was to Feyenoord’s rise under Slot. His ability to carry possession, switch play and knit together phases could add a different texture to a midfield that sometimes ran out of ideas during slower passages of play.

His €40 million valuation is not outlandish in the current market, particularly for a 24-year-old with Champions League and international experience. What gives this rumour more weight is Kokcu’s clear preference for a move to Anfield. That kind of intent can’t be underestimated, especially when the manager already knows exactly how to utilise him.

Kokcu might not arrive as a guaranteed starter, but in a long season competing on multiple fronts, he could prove to be the missing piece in a midfield that has already come a long way in a short time.